LAKELAND, Fla.- A Lakeland man faces up to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing ammunition as a convicted felon.
Solomon Marquise Smith, 22, was arrested on July 2, 2024, by Lakeland Police officers who were surveilling a home to serve an outstanding warrant. Officers observed Smith with a handgun tucked into his waistband. A subsequent search of the residence revealed the handgun, which had no serial number and was loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition.
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Investigators also found images on social media of Smith holding the same firearm just days before his arrest. Smith has prior felony convictions, including carrying a concealed firearm and drug possession, prohibiting him from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through community partnerships and focused enforcement.
The case was investigated by the FBI, ATF, and Lakeland Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang is prosecuting the case.
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